Spotted Bass

Scientific Name

Micropterus punctulatus

Other Common Names

Kentucky bass, spot

Identification

Much like the largemouth and the smallmouth, it is called the “in-between” species. It is distinguished from the smallmouth by the dark, blotchy lateral band from head to tail. The back of spotted bass’ upper jaw lines up with the middle rear of the eye, while largemouth jaws extends past the eye. It derives its name from the black spots on its belly scales. Most are about a 1 lb. or less.

Best Fishing

Fishing: Lakes: Claytor and North Fork Pound. Rivers: Appamattox, New, Pamunkey, and South and North Anna.

Fishing Techniques

Light to medium spin-casting and spinning outfits and medium bait casting rods and reels. Similar baits as for largemouth, but smaller. Spinnerbaits, top water plugs, crankbaits and fly rod popping bugs.

Feeding Habits

Crayfish, small fish, larval and adult insects. Spawning Habits: Spring, when water reaches 63° to 68°F. Males sweep silt from gravel or rock bottom to make nests near brush or logs, and guard eggs and fry.

Habitat

Native to Tennessee and Big Sandy drainages. Found in warm, slow-moving streams and stream-like areas or riverine arms of reservoirs.